We know that therapy can often be filled with questions. As you are making the decision to begin therapy and trying to find the right therapist, let us answer some commonly asked questions:

 What is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist? 

A licensed psychologist is a mental health professional who typically holds a Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology (PsyD) or a Doctorate in Philosophy (PhD) focusing on clinical psychology. There are many different kinds of psychologists. For example, clinical, counseling, and school psychologists work with individuals within a variety of therapeutic settings and contexts. There are also organizational psychologists, psychologists who focus more on research, and psychologists who work in academic settings. Dr. Allison Schechter is a Clinical Psychologist, meaning she earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (PsyD) which focuses more on applied clinical work instead of research. A clinical psychologist who holds a Doctorate is able to conduct therapy and research, teach at the university level, and conduct various types of psychological evaluations and assessments. A Licensed Clinical Psychologist is a psychologist who earned a Doctorate degree and has a clinical license to practice as a psychologist (one who has met and maintains the state's requirements for licensure, including passing a national licensing examination and completing an extensive number of required training hours). A psychologist is also different from a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) or a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who typically hold Masters degrees versus Doctorate degrees. Dr. Allison Schechter is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, meaning she has earned a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (PsyD) is currently licensed to practice psychology in Virginia.

How is a psychologist different from a psychiatrist? Can a psychologist prescribe medication since they are called "doctor?"

A psychologist, as described above, holds a Doctorate degree in psychology. They do not possess a medical degree or license, and therefore are not able to prescribe medication (although this may be changing in the field as is the case in certain states). A psychiatrist or physician holds a medical degree and they are able to prescribe medication. If it was discussed with a client that a referral for medication might be beneficial or appropriate, and if the client agrees, our therapists could refer you to a psychiatrist or your medical doctor who would then potentially be able to prescribe medication while our therapists would continue to see you for therapy.

What do I do if I have additional questions that I want answered before starting therapy? Will I be charged if I contact THE PRACTICE to answer my questions?

Our therapists are happy to offer a free initial consultation that can be done either via phone or virtually (up to 15 minutes). It is very important to have all of your questions answered before starting therapy, and it is important to be able to speak with your therapist to be sure that they are a good fit for you. It is important to discuss your needs in seeking out therapy so your therapist can also be sure that our areas of practice and expertise would match your needs. If it was determined that your needs are beyond the scope of the practice, our therapists would attempt to assist in making an appropriate referral. However, if you speak with one of our therapists and you both determine that starting therapy would be a good fit, then the process of starting sessions can begin. Clients are always encouraged to contact the practice to have your questions answered and there is no fee for this initial contact, nor would there be a fee for an initial face-to-face virtual consultation (up to 15 minutes). If you choose an initial free 15-minute consultation, either over the phone virtually, the consultation is not conducted as a therapy session. Rather it is an informal opportunity to meet and speak with one of our therapists and decide if moving forward is the right decision for you and your therapy needs.

How do I contact THE PRACTICE to schedule either a free initial consultation, to have my questions answered, or to schedule my first session with one of THE therapists?

The practice can be reached directly by calling Allison Schechter, Psy.D., who is the owner of the practice. Dr. Schechter can be reached directly at (571) 363-5044. If she is unavailable when you call, please leave a message and she will typically call you back within 24-hours.  You can also email Dr. Schechter directly at: allison@innerchangepsychology.com